Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what assessment he has made of the adequacy of the application deadline of 12 December 2026 will allow all eligible veterans sufficient opportunity to apply for restorative measures.

The LGBT Financial Recognition Scheme (FRS) will close at 23:59 on 12 December 2026 following a 24-month application window. The duration of the FRS’ application window was limited by its reliance on the authority of the Supply and Appropriations Act, which was utilised, instead of primary legislation, to avoid delay in launching the Scheme. The Government considers the 24-month application period sufficient and there are no current plans to extend the deadline. All applications received before the deadline will be processed in line with Scheme Rules.

Defence continues to take a proactive approach to ensuring all those affected by the Ban are aware of the restorative measures available before the deadline. This includes working in partnership with local councils, the NHS, community groups, Veterans’ Commissioners, LGBT and military charities and external communications specialists to increase awareness.